The fun at the Fair doesn’t stop because the sun went down! In fact, there are things at the Fair you can only experience at night – or some beloved traditions that might be better. Here are just eight of the many things you can enjoy at the Fair at night:
1. THE KROGER STARLIGHT PARADE
A longtime State Fair tradition – but totally reimagined! Join us for the brand-new Kroger Starlight Parade that begins nightly at 7:15 p.m. Featuring over-the-top, Texas-themed, and fun floats for the whole family, this nightly parade wanders through the fairgrounds all 24 nights of the Fair.
2. PATIOS AROUND THE PARK
Relax and enjoy the sights and flights of the Fair in one of our many patios around the park. From beer at the Magnolia Beer Garden to wine at the Texas Beer and Wine Garden, enjoy the best craft beers and wine from the Lone Star State.
BONUS: Both places are perfect areas to watch the Kroger Starlight Parade.
3. MATTRESS FIRM ILLUMINATION SENSATION
End your nights with a light and water show like no other! Each night at 8 p.m., enjoy the Mattress Firm Illumination Sensation that blends pop music, dancers, art, technology, and pyrotechnics over Fair Park’s historic Esplanade.
4. HALF-PRICE ADMISSION
Enjoy the Fair at night at half-off! On any night of the Fair – enjoy half-price admission after 5 p.m.
5. TEXAS STAR FERRIS WHEEL
While the views are great during the day – there is nothing like seeing the fairgrounds and the Dallas skyline at night. The Texas Star Ferris wheel takes you 350 feet up in the air and is the perfect place for a selfie!
6. CHEVROLET MAIN STAGE
Your trip to the Fair at night is also your ticket to a Texas-sized music festival. Featuring 17 headlining acts and 21 regional musical acts, the Chevrolet Main Stage is a must-stop for the best music in the Lone Star State.
7. STATE FAIR OF TEXAS RODEO
From high-energy bull riding to wild cow milking, you won’t want to miss the Rodeo on your visit to the Fair this year. Presented by United Ag & Turf, the State Fair of Texas Rodeo will take place each weekend of the Fair at 6:30 p.m.
8. BIG TEX
Last but certainly not least, visit and snap a photo with Big Tex at night. Don’t worry – he’s perfected his nighttime “Howdy” and smile.
Don’t forget to post and tag the Fair on social media at @statefairoftx and use hashtag #BigTex.